Vindication is morally questionable, but someone could be tempted to it to attach consequence to the offending behavior. After deciding not to take the low road, how did you handle these situations in the future?
What I can do is express that the reflection of myself in that scenario was one I didn't like, and I've become quite a different person overall since then. My conflict resolution methods in general are much more constructive. When I have a problem with somebody I am calm but direct and tell them what the problem is. I used to mistake being blunt for being rude, but blunt (as long as it is kind, and not vicious) can be very effective.
"having or showing a strong or unreasoning desire for revenge."
So yes I was after revenge.